Louisiana Cajun boiled shrimp is just one of the several varieties of Louisiana style Cajun seafood boils. It is very easy to make and the recipe below is a simple way to ensure Cajun boiled shrimp are flavorful and cooked to the right texture. This recipe is for medium spicy Shrimp and can be modified for more or less spicy flavor. I recommend fresh shrimp if possible but frozen shrimp will do if that’s all you have available.
Ingredients:
- 2.5 lbs raw shrimp (heads on or off)
- 1/3 cup Cajun seasoning (see recommendations)
- 1/4 cup garlic powder
- 1/3 cup liquid seafood boil (see recommendations)
- 2-3 fresh lemons (or 1 cup lemon juice)
Cooking Process:
1. Add enough water to a small pot to adequately cover the shrimp. Use your best judgment but leave enough room for the water not to boil over the edge of the pot.
2. Add Cajun seasoning and garlic powder to the pot. Squeeze lemons, cut into large slices and add to pot. Do not add liquid seafood boil to the pot yet or it may foam when boiling.
3. Bring pot of water to a boil.
4. Add shrimp to the pot.
5. Once water returns to boil, cook shrimp for 1 min.
6. Remove pot from heat and add liquid seafood boil.
7. Let sit for 2 minutes and then add ice to cool the water to stop the cooking process (about 2 cups). The water should still be fairly warm and is now soaking up more of the seasoning.
8. After about 3 to 4 minutes soak time select a shrimp and taste. If more flavor is desired, let sit a little longer until you are happy with the flavor.
9. Using a strainer, pour off the water.
Prepare you favorite seafood dipping sauce and enjoy!
